Man sues over injury-causing accident

A man injured in a three-car accident is suing the other two drivers involved.

Jesse J. Smith filed a complaint May 20 in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Richard Lee Fore and Emily Anne Kelly.

On or about April 24, 2015, Smith was driving his vehicle west on Interstate 64's Poplar Street Bridge, when he lawfully came to a stop due to congestion, the lawsuit states.

At the same time, Fore was driving west behind Smith and the other defendant, Kelly. The lawsuit states that Fore's vehicle first struck Kelly's from the rear, then Kelly's vehicle struck Smith's.

Smith is cited for negligence in failing to yield the right of way, keep a proper lookout, drive safely at a safe speed, sound his horn, reduce his speed to avoid a collision, and follow at a safe distance behind the vehicle to his front.

Kelly is cited with negligence for failing to keep a proper lookout, drive in a safe manner and at a safe speed, sound her horn, reduce her speed, and follow at a safe distance behind Smith.

As a result, the lawsuit states, Smith suffered injuries, pain and suffering, medical expense, and loss of a normal life.

The plaintiff seeks damages in excess of $50,000, plus costs, from each defendant.

The plaintiff is represented by Brian M. Wendler and Ellen R. Burford of Wendler Law PC in Edwardsville.